In the Spring of 2007, Miss Connecticut, Heidi Voight, spoke at the annual Spring Banquet at The Children’s Home (TCH) in Cromwell, CT. She emphasized how young women need other women as role models and heroes for girls, instead of the media-made heroes like Brittany Spears, Paris Hilton etc. At the conclusion of her reign, Heidi encouraged the home to move forward with the notion, “Women of Substance”. It was then that the seed was planted. The Children’s Home embarked on a mission to bring together a group of women that our girls could look up to and learn from, as well as a group that could help draw support to The Home and its mission. The group would be called, The Women Advocates for Youth (The WAY).

Ironically and almost by fate, the Hip Purse Company (which was already donating to TCH) offered to work with TCH to create awareness around the issues of self-worth and the importance of protecting one’s body. Four sisters seeking to create a fashionable alternative to the hands-free market founded the company about a year ago. They created the Hands-Off Collection as a way for young girls to have fun with fashion, while at the same time, conveying a positive message of self-love. Their purses have been designed to be worn on the body as a constant reminder to protect and respect their body at all times. The women in this company were so excited about helping to develop this group as its mission parallels theirs.

Now that the steering committee was formed, they garnered support from Barbara DeBaptiste, the Commissioner for the National Committee on the Status of Women, and the Founder of the Head Start program in CT. She summarized best the objective for the group. “The goal for the committee is simple- “The WAY will have the opportunity to learn about and shape services for traumatized young women. They can offer ideas and resources to heal the body, mind and soul of the girls, and provide inspiration and motivational support to both the female residents and staff at The Children’s Home."

Presently, The WAY consists of women of influence and concern that have joined together as an advocacy group to provide opportunities, role modeling and assistance in the shaping of services for young girls at The Children’s Home. Governor Jodi Rell, Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, and National Correspondent Natalie Morales, are just some of the influential women that are committed to the cause.

We believe that this group can offer these children, encouragement and a dream for tomorrow. By example, involvement and advocacy, we can touch their lives and give them the belief that there can be a brighter tomorrow and that they can create a successful and healthy mind, body and spirit!